US20170165417A1 - Safety needle assemblies and related methods - Google Patents
Safety needle assemblies and related methods Download PDFInfo
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- US20170165417A1 US20170165417A1 US15/115,884 US201515115884A US2017165417A1 US 20170165417 A1 US20170165417 A1 US 20170165417A1 US 201515115884 A US201515115884 A US 201515115884A US 2017165417 A1 US2017165417 A1 US 2017165417A1
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- safety
- needle
- safety shield
- barrel
- housing
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/14—Infusion devices, e.g. infusing by gravity; Blood infusion; Accessories therefor
- A61M5/158—Needles for infusions; Accessories therefor, e.g. for inserting infusion needles, or for holding them on the body
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/178—Syringes
- A61M5/31—Details
- A61M5/32—Needles; Details of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hub; Accessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the body; Devices for protection of needles
- A61M5/3205—Apparatus for removing or disposing of used needles or syringes, e.g. containers; Means for protection against accidental injuries from used needles
- A61M5/321—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles
- A61M5/3243—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles being axially-extensible, e.g. protective sleeves coaxially slidable on the syringe barrel
- A61M5/326—Fully automatic sleeve extension, i.e. in which triggering of the sleeve does not require a deliberate action by the user
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/178—Syringes
- A61M5/31—Details
- A61M5/32—Needles; Details of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hub; Accessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the body; Devices for protection of needles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/178—Syringes
- A61M5/31—Details
- A61M5/32—Needles; Details of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hub; Accessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the body; Devices for protection of needles
- A61M5/3205—Apparatus for removing or disposing of used needles or syringes, e.g. containers; Means for protection against accidental injuries from used needles
- A61M5/321—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles
- A61M5/3243—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles being axially-extensible, e.g. protective sleeves coaxially slidable on the syringe barrel
- A61M5/3271—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles being axially-extensible, e.g. protective sleeves coaxially slidable on the syringe barrel with guiding tracks for controlled sliding of needle protective sleeve from needle exposing to needle covering position
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/14—Infusion devices, e.g. infusing by gravity; Blood infusion; Accessories therefor
- A61M5/158—Needles for infusions; Accessories therefor, e.g. for inserting infusion needles, or for holding them on the body
- A61M2005/1586—Holding accessories for holding infusion needles on the body
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/178—Syringes
- A61M5/31—Details
- A61M5/32—Needles; Details of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hub; Accessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the body; Devices for protection of needles
- A61M5/3205—Apparatus for removing or disposing of used needles or syringes, e.g. containers; Means for protection against accidental injuries from used needles
- A61M5/321—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles
- A61M5/3243—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles being axially-extensible, e.g. protective sleeves coaxially slidable on the syringe barrel
- A61M5/3245—Constructional features thereof, e.g. to improve manipulation or functioning
- A61M2005/3247—Means to impede repositioning of protection sleeve from needle covering to needle uncovering position
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/178—Syringes
- A61M5/31—Details
- A61M5/32—Needles; Details of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hub; Accessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the body; Devices for protection of needles
- A61M5/3205—Apparatus for removing or disposing of used needles or syringes, e.g. containers; Means for protection against accidental injuries from used needles
- A61M5/321—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles
- A61M5/3243—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles being axially-extensible, e.g. protective sleeves coaxially slidable on the syringe barrel
- A61M5/326—Fully automatic sleeve extension, i.e. in which triggering of the sleeve does not require a deliberate action by the user
- A61M2005/3267—Biased sleeves where the needle is uncovered by insertion of the needle into a patient's body
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2207/00—Methods of manufacture, assembly or production
Definitions
- the present embodiments relate to assemblies and methods for percutaneously infusing fluids to a body and/or withdrawing fluids from a body.
- Needle assemblies are commonly used to percutaneously infuse fluids to a body and/or withdraw fluids from a body.
- the needle assembly generally remains disposed in the vasculature while one or more assemblies are connected and disconnected to the assembly to complete the infusion/withdrawal process.
- the sharp distal tip of the needle is exposed. It is disadvantageous to leave the tip exposed, as there is a risk that medical staff can accidentally prick themselves. This phenomenon is known as needlestick, and can transfer blood-borne diseases.
- the safety needle assembly comprises a housing including a proximal end and a distal end and defining an interior space.
- the safety needle assembly further comprises a barrel rotatably received within the interior space of the housing.
- the safety needle assembly further comprises a needle hub received within the proximal end of the housing.
- the safety needle assembly further comprises a needle extending distally from the needle hub, through the barrel, and through the distal end of the housing.
- the needle includes a sharp distal tip.
- the safety needle assembly further comprises a safety shield defining a lumen and received within the interior space of the housing. The safety shield extends distally from the housing through the distal end of the housing.
- the needle extends through the lumen of the safety shield with the sharp distal tip exposed from the safety shield.
- the safety needle assembly further comprises a biasing member received within the barrel and extending between the needle hub and the safety shield.
- the safety needle assembly includes a first configuration in which the safety shield and the barrel define a first relative rotational orientation, and a second configuration in which the safety shield and the barrel define a second relative rotational orientation.
- Another of the present embodiments comprises a method of using a safety needle assembly including a housing supporting a barrel and a needle hub, the barrel being rotatably received within the housing, a needle extending distally from the needle hub and including a sharp distal tip, a safety shield being disposed over the needle.
- the method comprises, with the safety needle assembly in a first configuration in which the sharp distal tip of the needle is exposed from a distal end of the safety shield and the safety shield engages the barrel to prevent translation of the safety shield distally along the needle, translating the safety shield proximally along the needle.
- the method further comprises rotating the barrel with respect to the safety shield as the safety shield translates proximally along the needle, thereby disengaging the safety shield from the barrel to permit translation of the safety shield distally along the needle.
- the method further comprises translating the safety shield distally along the needle until the safety shield covers the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- a still further aspect of the present disclosure is a safety needle assembly comprising: a housing including a proximal end and a distal end, the housing defining an interior space; a barrel rotatably received within the interior space of the housing; a needle hub received within the proximal end of the housing; a needle extending distally from the needle hub, through the barrel, and through the distal end of the housing, the needle including a sharp distal tip; a safety shield defining a lumen and received within the interior space of the housing, the safety shield extending distally from the housing through the distal end of the housing, the needle extending through the lumen of the safety shield with the sharp distal tip exposed from the safety shield; and a biasing member received within the barrel and extending between the needle hub and the safety shield; wherein the safety needle assembly includes a first configuration in which the safety shield and the barrel define a first relative rotational orientation; and wherein the safety needle assembly includes a second configuration in which the safety shield and the barrel define a second relative rotational orientation
- the safety needle assembly wherein when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration the safety shield can engage the barrel to prevent distal translation of the safety shield relative to the needle.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the safety shield can include a detent that engages a notch on the barrel when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the notch can include a sloped surface proximal of the detent.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the detent can bear against the sloped surface when the safety shield moves proximally relative to the barrel, causing the barrel to rotate relative to the safety shield toward the second relative rotational orientation.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the detent can extend radially outward from the safety shield.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the barrel can include a longitudinal channel and the detent can slide within the channel when the safety shield and the barrel occupy the second relative rotational orientation.
- the safety needle assembly wherein when the safety needle assembly occupies the second configuration the barrel does not have to constrain distal translation of the safety shield relative to the needle.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the biasing member can bias the safety shield in the distal direction when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration and when the safety needle assembly occupies the second configuration.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the safety shield can move distally relative to the needle to cover the sharp distal tip of the needle when a distally directed force exerted by the biasing member on the safety shield overcomes a proximally directed force exerted on the safety shield.
- the safety needle assembly wherein when the safety shield covers the sharp distal tip of the needle the housing can prevent the safety shield from moving proximally with respect to the needle by a distance sufficient to expose the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the housing can include a catch configured to deflect to allow the safety shield to pass when the safety shield moves in the proximal-to-distal direction relative to the housing and can be configured to block movement of the safety shield in the distal-to-proximal direction relative to the housing.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the catch can comprise a leaf spring.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the safety shield can engage the housing to prevent the safety shield from rotating relative to the housing.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the safety shield can include at least one rail that extends longitudinally along an outer surface of the safety shield and that can slidably receive within at least one indentation in the housing.
- the safety needle assembly can further comprise a wing assembly including wings extending laterally from the safety needle assembly and configured to facilitate securing the safety needle assembly to a patient.
- the safety needle assembly wherein the biasing member can be a spring.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a method of manufacturing a safety needle assembly.
- the method can comprise: forming a housing supporting a barrel and a needle hub, the barrel being rotatably received within the housing; extending a needle distally from the needle hub, said needle including a sharp distal tip; positioning a safety shield over the needle so that the sharp distal tip is exposed from a distal end of the safety shield in a first configuration; wherein the safety shield engages the barrel to prevent translation of the safety shield distally along the needle; wherein the barrel is rotatable with respect to the safety shield when the safety shield translates proximally along the needle to disengage the safety shield from the barrel to permit translation of the safety shield distally along the needle; and wherein the safety shield is translatable distally along the needle to cover the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- the method can further comprise a biasing member to apply a distally directed force to the safety shield.
- biasing member can be received within the barrel and extends between the needle hub and the safety shield.
- biasing member can be a spring
- the safety shield can include a detent that engages a catch on the barrel when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration.
- the method wherein the catch can include a sloped surface proximal of the detent.
- the method of using can include a housing supporting a barrel and a needle hub, the barrel being rotatably received within the housing, a needle extending distally from the needle hub and including a sharp distal tip, a safety shield being disposed over the needle, the method comprising: with the safety needle assembly in a first configuration in which the sharp distal tip of the needle is exposed from a distal end of the safety shield and the safety shield engages the barrel to prevent translation of the safety shield distally along the needle, translating the safety shield proximally along the needle; rotating the barrel with respect to the safety shield as the safety shield translates proximally along the needle, thereby disengaging the safety shield from the barrel to permit translation of the safety shield distally along the needle; and translating the safety shield distally along the needle until the safety shield covers the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- the method of using wherein translating the safety shield distally along the needle can comprise a biasing member applying a distally directed force to the safety shield.
- biasing member can be received within the barrel and extends between the needle hub and the safety shield.
- biasing member can be a spring
- the method of using wherein the safety shield can include a detent that engages a catch on the barrel when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration.
- the method of using wherein the catch can include a sloped surface proximal of the detent.
- the housing can prevent the safety shield from moving proximally with respect to the needle by a distance sufficient to expose the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- the method of using wherein the housing can include a catch configured to deflect to allow the safety shield to pass when the safety shield moves in the proximal-to-distal direction relative to the housing and configured to block movement of the safety shield in the distal-to-proximal direction relative to the housing.
- the method wherein the catch can comprise a leaf spring.
- FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the present safety needle assembly, illustrating the assembly in a pre-activation configuration
- FIG. 1A is a detail view of the portion of FIG. 1 indicated by the box labeled 1 A- 1 A;
- FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 , illustrating the assembly in a post-activation configuration;
- FIG. 3 is an exploded side perspective view of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 taken through the cut line labeled 4 - 4 in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of the barrel of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of the safety shield of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of various components of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 taken through the cut line labeled 4 - 4 in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of various components of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of various components of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 taken through the cut line labeled 4 - 4 in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of various components of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 1 taken through the cut line labeled 4 - 4 in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of the safety needle assembly of FIG. 2 taken through the cut line labeled 12 - 12 in FIG. 2 .
- the present embodiments include methods of using a safety needle assembly and method of manufacturing or making the safety needle assembly. Some of these embodiments may be performed in connection with treating a human and/or animal body. Others of these embodiments may be performed independently of a human and/or animal body, such as for purposes of testing or demonstration. Accordingly, the present embodiments pertaining to methods of using a safety needle assembly should not be construed as limited to methods of treating a human and/or animal body.
- FIGS. 1-12 illustrate one embodiment of the present safety needle assembly 20 .
- the assembly 20 is configured for use in drawing blood and/or infusing blood or other liquids.
- the assembly 20 includes a housing 22 , a barrel 24 ( FIG. 3 ), a needle hub 26 , a needle 28 , a safety shield 30 , and a biasing member 32 ( FIG. 3 ).
- the needle 28 includes a sharp distal tip 34 . In the pre-activation or ready to use configuration of FIG. 1 , the sharp distal tip 34 is exposed from a distal end 36 of the safety shield 30 .
- the assembly 20 may optionally include a removable cap (not shown) that extends over the needle 28 and the safety shield 30 in the pre-activation configuration to cover the sharp distal tip 34 and thereby reduce the likelihood of needlestick and/or for packaging.
- a removable cap not shown
- the safety shield 30 extends distally beyond the sharp distal tip 34 to protectively cover the sharp tip 34 and reduce the likelihood of unintended needlestick.
- the housing 22 includes a proximal end 38 and a distal end 40 , and defines an interior space 42 .
- the housing 22 is generally cylindrical.
- the housing 22 includes a proximal opening 44 at the proximal end 38 and a distal opening 46 at the distal end 40 .
- a wall thickness of the housing 22 is substantially uniform, except at the distal end 40 , where the housing wall is thicker, creating a proximally facing internal annular shoulder 48 at the point where the wall thickness increases. In alternative embodiments, the wall thickness of the housing 22 need not be thicker at the distal end 40 .
- ribs (not shown) or other structure could be provided at or near the distal end 40 to serve the same, or a similar, function as the shoulder 48 .
- the distal opening 46 which extends through the region of increased wall thickness, thus has a smaller diameter than the proximal opening 44 .
- the housing has a uniform thickness and the shoulder is formed from a separately inserted or co-molded component.
- the housing 22 includes a catch 50 near the distal end 40 .
- the catch 50 comprises a portion of the wall surface of the housing 22 defined by a U-shaped cutout 52 through the sidewall.
- the catch 50 is a cantilevered leaf spring that extends distally from its junction 54 with the sidewall.
- the junction 54 can be proximally located as shown or distally located.
- a thickness of the catch 50 increases, creating a ramped surface 58 .
- the ramped surface 58 bears against the safety shield 30 as the safety shield 30 slides distally along the needle 28 , causing the catch 50 to deflect radially outward until the safety shield 30 passes the catch 50 .
- a spring return force in the deflected catch 50 causes the catch 50 to return to its at rest position in which it blocks the safety shield 30 from returning proximally along the needle 28 . The process by which the safety shield 30 deflects the catch 50 and the catch subsequently blocks the safety shield's return is described in detail below.
- the barrel 24 is rotatably received within the interior space 42 of the housing 22 .
- Relative dimensions of the barrel 24 and the housing 22 are preferably such that the barrel 24 is freely rotatable within the interior space 42 of the housing 22 without substantial friction between the barrel 24 and the housing 22 .
- FIG. 5 illustrates the barrel 24 in greater detail.
- the barrel 24 is generally cylindrical and includes a substantially uniform wall thickness.
- a channel 60 extends through the sidewall of the barrel 24 from its proximal end 62 to its distal end 64 .
- An edge of the channel 60 includes a notch 66 adjacent the distal end 64 .
- the notch 66 engages the safety shield 30 , as described in detail below.
- the edge of the channel 60 further includes a cutout 68 at the distal end 64 .
- the cutout 68 provides a clearance so that the barrel 24 does not interfere with the catch 50 on the housing 22 .
- the notch 66 and the cutout 68 are not limited to their respective shapes as illustrated. In alternative embodiments either or both of the notch 66 and the cutout 68 may have different shapes.
- the needle hub 26 is received within the proximal opening 44 of the housing 22 .
- the needle hub 26 is shaped as a stepped cylinder.
- a central portion 70 of the needle hub 26 includes an outer diameter that is slightly smaller than an inner diameter of the proximal opening 44 of the housing 22 such that the central portion 70 is snugly received and held within the proximal opening 44 .
- the needle hub 26 may be held within the proximal opening 44 by any suitable means, such as a friction fit, adhesive, welding, etc.
- a proximal flange 72 extends radially outward of the central portion 70 at the proximal end of the needle hub 26 and abuts an annular proximal face 74 of the housing 22 .
- a distal portion 76 of the needle hub 26 includes a lesser outer diameter than the central portion 70 , creating a distally facing internal annular shoulder 78 at the junction of the distal portion 76 and the central portion 70 .
- the needle hub 26 further includes a first inner diameter 80 in the region of the central portion 70 that steps down to a second, lesser, inner diameter 82 near the junction of the central portion 70 and the distal portion 76 , creating a proximally facing internal annular shoulder 84 at the location of the step.
- a tube 86 is received within the first inner diameter region 80 of the needle hub 26 and extends proximally out of the needle hub 26 .
- the needle 28 is received within the lesser inner diameter 82 of the distal portion 76 of the needle hub 26 and extends distally from the needle hub 26 , through the barrel 24 , and through the distal opening 46 of the housing 22 .
- the needle 28 may be held within the needle hub 26 by any suitable means, such as a friction fit, adhesive, welding, etc.
- the needle 28 includes a sharp distal tip 34 .
- the needle 28 which may also be referred to as a cannula, further defines a lumen 88 that extends entirely through the needle 28 .
- the lumen 88 of the needle 28 is in fluid communication with the tube 86 that extends proximally out of the needle hub 26 .
- the tube 86 and the needle 28 thus create a fluid path between a fluid source connected to the tube 86 and a vessel of a patient in which the sharp distal tip 34 of the needle 28 is inserted.
- the safety shield 30 is received within the interior space 42 of the housing 22 and extends distally from the housing 22 through the distal opening 46 .
- the safety shield 30 is shaped substantially as a cylinder having a uniform outer diameter, except for a tapered nose portion at the distal end 36 and a flange 90 that extends radially outward at the proximal end 92 .
- relative dimensions of the safety shield 30 and the distal opening 46 of the housing 22 are preferably such that the uniform outer diameter portion of the safety shield 30 is freely slidable within the distal opening 46 without substantial friction between the safety shield 30 and the distal opening 46 .
- the proximal flange 90 has a greater diameter than the distal opening 46 such that the safety shield 30 cannot be expelled from the housing 22 through the distal opening 46 .
- the safety shield 30 defines a lumen 94 that slidably receives the needle 28 . Relative dimensions of the safety shield lumen 94 and the needle 28 are preferably such that the needle 28 is freely slidable within the safety shield lumen 94 without substantial friction between the needle 28 and the lumen 94 .
- the safety shield 30 includes at least one rail 96 that extends longitudinally along the outer surface of the safety shield 30 . More than one rail 96 may be provided, such as a second rail 96 disposed diametrically opposite the rail 96 that is visible in FIG. 1A .
- the distal opening 46 in the housing 22 includes a keyway or slot 98 that receives the rail 96 .
- the keyway 98 is preferably of substantially the same shape as the rail 96 , and of slightly greater dimension, such that the keyway 98 and the rail 96 do not interfere with the translatory motion of the safety shield 30 through the distal opening 46 , but engagement of the rail 96 in the keyway 98 prevents relative rotation of the safety shield 30 and the housing 22 .
- the safety shield 30 further includes a detent 100 that extends radially outward from the proximal flange 90 .
- the detent 100 is circular in cross-section.
- the illustrated configuration is just one example and is not limiting.
- FIG. 7 which illustrates the safety shield 30 and the barrel 24 without the housing 22 for clarity, the detent 100 engages the notch 66 on the barrel 24 when the safety needle assembly 20 occupies the pre-activation configuration of FIG. 1 .
- a distal face 102 of the notch 66 provides a bearing surface for the detent 100 that resists distal movement of the safety shield 30 along the needle 28 , thus keeping the sharp distal tip 34 ( FIG.
- a proximal face 104 ( FIG. 5 ) of the notch 66 includes a sloped surface that the detent 100 bears against to cause relative rotation of the barrel 24 and the safety shield 30 when the safety shield 30 moves proximally along the needle 28 , as described further below.
- the biasing member 32 is received within the barrel 24 .
- the biasing member 32 comprises a spring, more specifically a coil spring.
- the illustrated embodiment is just one example and is not limiting.
- the biasing member 32 is compressed with a proximal end 106 of the biasing member 32 bearing against the distally facing annular shoulder 78 of the needle hub 26 and a distal end 108 of the biasing member 32 bearing against a proximal face 110 of the safety shield 30 .
- the biasing member 32 compresses further, increasing the magnitude of a spring return force bearing against the safety shield 30 , and biasing the safety shield 30 toward the post-activation configuration of FIG. 2 , as further described below.
- the safety needle assembly 20 further includes a wing assembly 112 .
- the wing assembly 112 includes a generally cylindrical body 114 defining an interior passage 116 through which the housing 22 extends, such that the wing assembly 112 is located near the distal end 40 of the housing 22 .
- the body is generally cylindrical.
- the illustrated configuration is just one example and is not limiting.
- the housing can be angular, oblong, oval, or a hollow polyhedron for receiving the housing.
- Relative dimensions of the body's interior passage 116 and the housing 22 are preferably such that the body 114 is snugly received about the housing 22 so as to restrict relative movement of the wing assembly 112 and the housing 22 .
- the wing assembly 112 may be secured to the housing 22 by any suitable means, such as a friction fit, adhesive, welding, etc.
- the wing assembly 112 includes first and second wings 118 that extend laterally in opposite directions from the body 114 .
- the wings 118 are substantially planar and are constructed of a flexible material so that they can conform to contoured surfaces of a patient's body in the area of a blood draw or infusion. Tape (not shown) placed over the wings 118 secures the safety needle assembly 20 to the patient's body.
- An underside of each wing 118 may include texturing (not shown) to increase the ability of the wings 118 to grip the skin.
- An optional opening 120 on each wing 118 may be included to facilitate securing the wings 118 to one another.
- the wing assembly body 114 includes a channel 122 along its inner surface.
- the channel 122 overlies the catch 50 on the housing 22 and creates a space into which the catch 50 may deflect when the safety shield 30 moves distally along the needle 28 past the catch 50 , as described above.
- embodiments of the present safety needle assembly 20 are configured for use in drawing blood and/or infusing blood or other liquids.
- the process of inserting the needle 28 into the patient's vasculature is commonly referred to as cannulation.
- an operator begins with the safety needle assembly 20 in the pre-activation configuration of FIG. 1 .
- the pre-activation configuration is also illustrated in FIG. 8 .
- the operator positions the assembly 20 such that the sharp distal tip 34 of the needle 28 is near the patient's skin 124 .
- a desired length of the needle 28 adjacent the tip 34 is exposed.
- the exposed length L may be any length, such as between about 1 mm and about 10 mm.
- the exposed length L may be about 4 mm.
- the operator positions the assembly 20 such that it forms a desired angle ⁇ with respect to the patient's skin 124 .
- ⁇ may be any value, such as between about 5° and about 30°. In one example, ⁇ may be about 18°.
- the sharp distal tip 34 of the needle 28 is closely adjacent to, or abutting, the patient's skin 124
- the distal end 36 of the safety shield 30 is similarly closely adjacent to, or abutting, the patient's skin 124 .
- the safety shield 30 and the barrel 24 define a first relative rotational orientation, which is described above and illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 7 .
- the detent 100 on the safety shield 30 is seated within the notch 66 on the barrel 24 , as shown in FIG. 9 .
- the operator applies a distally directed force to the assembly 20 , such as to the housing 22 and/or the wing assembly 112 , to pierce the patient's skin 124 with the needle 28 .
- the operator preferably does not touch the safety shield 30 so as not to restrict its ability to translate along the needle 28 .
- the motion of the assembly 20 toward the patient's skin 124 forces the distal end 36 of the safety shield 30 against the patient's skin 124 , which applies a steadily increasing, proximally directed force F ( FIG. 9 ) on the safety shield 30 , forcing the safety shield 30 to translate proximally along the needle 28 .
- the translatory motion of the safety shield 30 along the needle 28 generates rotational motion of the barrel 24 as the detent 100 on the safety shield 30 bears against the sloped proximal surface 104 of the notch 66 on the barrel 24 , as described above with reference to FIG. 7 , and as shown in FIG. 9 .
- the safety needle assembly 20 moves toward a second configuration in which the safety shield 30 and the barrel 24 define a second relative rotational orientation.
- this second relative rotational orientation which is illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the detent 100 on the safety shield 30 is positioned within the channel 60 on the barrel 24 .
- the safety shield 30 is thus free to translate along the needle 28 , with the detent 100 sliding along the channel 60 , until the safety shield 30 reaches a proximal limit.
- the proximal limit may be defined as a configuration in which the biasing member 32 is compressed as far as possible. In this configuration, again illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the biasing member 32 stores a distally directed spring return force that bears against the proximal face 110 of the safety shield 30 .
- the proximal limit of the safety shield 30 may be defined as a configuration in which the safety shield 30 encounters a barrier, such as the distal face 126 of the needle hub 26 , or another barrier (not shown).
- FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate the safety shield 30 at its proximal limit. At this position, a desired length of the needle 28 is exposed.
- the exposed length L′ may be any length, such as between about 10 mm and about 30 mm. In one example, the exposed length L′ may be about 19.5 mm.
- the operator withdraws the needle 28 from the patient's vasculature.
- the safety shield 30 moves distally along the needle 28 under the influence of the biasing member 32 , which releases the spring return force stored therein as the safety shield 30 moves distally along the needle 28 . Because the safety shield 30 and the barrel 24 occupy the second relative rotational orientation during this phase of the process, the detent 100 on the safety shield 30 does not contact the notch 66 on the barrel 24 when the detent 100 reaches the location of the notch 66 .
- the detent 100 which is positioned in the barrel channel 60 , bypasses the notch 66 as the safety shield 30 continues farther distally along the needle 28 toward the post-activation configuration of FIGS. 2 and 12 in which the sharp distal tip 34 of the needle 28 is covered to reduce the likelihood of needlestick.
- the detent 100 eventually reaches the catch 50 on the housing 22 .
- the detent 100 contacts the ramped inner surface 58 at the distal end 56 of the catch 50 , causing the catch 50 to deflect radially outward.
- the channel 122 FIG. 1A
- the spring return force stored in the catch 50 (which is a leaf spring) moves the catch 50 back to its at rest position, as shown in FIG. 12 .
- the catch 50 protrudes into the return path of the detent 100 , the catch 50 provides a barrier that prevents the safety shield 30 from moving proximally along the needle 28 by a distance that would be sufficient to re-expose the sharp tip 34 of the needle 28 .
- the sharp distal tip 34 of the needle 28 is thus safely covered by the safety shield 30 , thereby reducing the likelihood of needlestick.
- an operator begins with the safety needle assembly 20 in the pre-activation configuration of FIG. 1 .
- the operator then may translate the safety shield 30 proximally along the needle 28 by grasping the housing 22 with the fingers on one hand, grasping the safety shield 30 with the fingers on the opposite hand, and pushing the safety shield 30 proximally with respect to the needle 28 and the housing 22 .
- the proximal translation of the safety shield 30 along the needle 28 rotates the barrel 24 and disengages the detent 100 on the safety shield 30 from the notch 66 on the barrel 24 .
- the spring return force in the biasing member 32 translates the safety shield 30 distally along the needle 28 until the safety shield 30 reaches the post-activation configuration of FIG. 2 .
- the various component parts of the present safety needle assembly 20 may be constructed of suitable medical grade materials having material properties that provide each component with desired characteristics, which characteristics may vary from one component to another.
- certain components such as the housing 22 , the barrel 24 , the needle hub 26 , the safety shield 30 and/or the wing assembly 112 may be constructed of medical grade plastic materials, including, without limitation, nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polyether block amide (PEBAX), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), thermoplastic polyetherimide (ULTEM), etc.
- EVA ethylene-vinyl acetate
- PEBAX polyether block amide
- ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
- PEEK polyether ether ketone
- PTFE thermoplastic polyetherimide
- ULTEM thermoplastic poly
- Certain other components may be constructed of medical grade metal materials, including, without limitation, stainless steel, titanium, cobalt-chromium, etc.
- the foregoing examples should not be construed as limiting.
- components indicated as being plastic may in some cases be constructed of other materials, such as metals, and components indicated as being metal may in some cases be constructed of other materials, such as plastics.
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- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- Anesthesiology (AREA)
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- Hematology (AREA)
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- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
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Abstract
Description
- This application claims priority and benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 61/937,307, filed Feb. 7, 2014, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.
- The present embodiments relate to assemblies and methods for percutaneously infusing fluids to a body and/or withdrawing fluids from a body.
- Needle assemblies are commonly used to percutaneously infuse fluids to a body and/or withdraw fluids from a body. The needle assembly generally remains disposed in the vasculature while one or more assemblies are connected and disconnected to the assembly to complete the infusion/withdrawal process. Upon withdrawing the assembly from the vasculature, the sharp distal tip of the needle is exposed. It is disadvantageous to leave the tip exposed, as there is a risk that medical staff can accidentally prick themselves. This phenomenon is known as needlestick, and can transfer blood-borne diseases.
- The various embodiments of the present safety needle assembly and methods have several features, no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the present embodiments as expressed by the claims that follow, their more prominent features now will be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description,” one will understand how the features of the present embodiments provide the advantages described herein.
- One of the present embodiments comprises a safety needle assembly. The safety needle assembly comprises a housing including a proximal end and a distal end and defining an interior space. The safety needle assembly further comprises a barrel rotatably received within the interior space of the housing. The safety needle assembly further comprises a needle hub received within the proximal end of the housing. The safety needle assembly further comprises a needle extending distally from the needle hub, through the barrel, and through the distal end of the housing. The needle includes a sharp distal tip. The safety needle assembly further comprises a safety shield defining a lumen and received within the interior space of the housing. The safety shield extends distally from the housing through the distal end of the housing. The needle extends through the lumen of the safety shield with the sharp distal tip exposed from the safety shield. The safety needle assembly further comprises a biasing member received within the barrel and extending between the needle hub and the safety shield. The safety needle assembly includes a first configuration in which the safety shield and the barrel define a first relative rotational orientation, and a second configuration in which the safety shield and the barrel define a second relative rotational orientation.
- Another of the present embodiments comprises a method of using a safety needle assembly including a housing supporting a barrel and a needle hub, the barrel being rotatably received within the housing, a needle extending distally from the needle hub and including a sharp distal tip, a safety shield being disposed over the needle. The method comprises, with the safety needle assembly in a first configuration in which the sharp distal tip of the needle is exposed from a distal end of the safety shield and the safety shield engages the barrel to prevent translation of the safety shield distally along the needle, translating the safety shield proximally along the needle. The method further comprises rotating the barrel with respect to the safety shield as the safety shield translates proximally along the needle, thereby disengaging the safety shield from the barrel to permit translation of the safety shield distally along the needle. The method further comprises translating the safety shield distally along the needle until the safety shield covers the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- A still further aspect of the present disclosure is a safety needle assembly comprising: a housing including a proximal end and a distal end, the housing defining an interior space; a barrel rotatably received within the interior space of the housing; a needle hub received within the proximal end of the housing; a needle extending distally from the needle hub, through the barrel, and through the distal end of the housing, the needle including a sharp distal tip; a safety shield defining a lumen and received within the interior space of the housing, the safety shield extending distally from the housing through the distal end of the housing, the needle extending through the lumen of the safety shield with the sharp distal tip exposed from the safety shield; and a biasing member received within the barrel and extending between the needle hub and the safety shield; wherein the safety needle assembly includes a first configuration in which the safety shield and the barrel define a first relative rotational orientation; and wherein the safety needle assembly includes a second configuration in which the safety shield and the barrel define a second relative rotational orientation.
- The safety needle assembly wherein when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration the safety shield can engage the barrel to prevent distal translation of the safety shield relative to the needle.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the safety shield can include a detent that engages a notch on the barrel when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the notch can include a sloped surface proximal of the detent.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the detent can bear against the sloped surface when the safety shield moves proximally relative to the barrel, causing the barrel to rotate relative to the safety shield toward the second relative rotational orientation.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the detent can extend radially outward from the safety shield.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the barrel can include a longitudinal channel and the detent can slide within the channel when the safety shield and the barrel occupy the second relative rotational orientation.
- The safety needle assembly wherein when the safety needle assembly occupies the second configuration the barrel does not have to constrain distal translation of the safety shield relative to the needle.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the biasing member can bias the safety shield in the distal direction when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration and when the safety needle assembly occupies the second configuration.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the safety shield can move distally relative to the needle to cover the sharp distal tip of the needle when a distally directed force exerted by the biasing member on the safety shield overcomes a proximally directed force exerted on the safety shield.
- The safety needle assembly wherein when the safety shield covers the sharp distal tip of the needle the housing can prevent the safety shield from moving proximally with respect to the needle by a distance sufficient to expose the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the housing can include a catch configured to deflect to allow the safety shield to pass when the safety shield moves in the proximal-to-distal direction relative to the housing and can be configured to block movement of the safety shield in the distal-to-proximal direction relative to the housing.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the catch can comprise a leaf spring.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the safety shield can engage the housing to prevent the safety shield from rotating relative to the housing.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the safety shield can include at least one rail that extends longitudinally along an outer surface of the safety shield and that can slidably receive within at least one indentation in the housing.
- The safety needle assembly can further comprise a wing assembly including wings extending laterally from the safety needle assembly and configured to facilitate securing the safety needle assembly to a patient.
- The safety needle assembly wherein the biasing member can be a spring.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a method of manufacturing a safety needle assembly. The method can comprise: forming a housing supporting a barrel and a needle hub, the barrel being rotatably received within the housing; extending a needle distally from the needle hub, said needle including a sharp distal tip; positioning a safety shield over the needle so that the sharp distal tip is exposed from a distal end of the safety shield in a first configuration; wherein the safety shield engages the barrel to prevent translation of the safety shield distally along the needle; wherein the barrel is rotatable with respect to the safety shield when the safety shield translates proximally along the needle to disengage the safety shield from the barrel to permit translation of the safety shield distally along the needle; and wherein the safety shield is translatable distally along the needle to cover the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- The method can further comprise a biasing member to apply a distally directed force to the safety shield.
- The method wherein the biasing member can be received within the barrel and extends between the needle hub and the safety shield.
- The method wherein the biasing member can be a spring.
- The method wherein the safety shield can include a detent that engages a catch on the barrel when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration.
- The method wherein the catch can include a sloped surface proximal of the detent.
- The method wherein the detent can bear against the sloped surface when the safety shield translates proximally along the needle, causing the barrel to rotate with respect to the safety shield.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure is a method of using a safety needle assembly. The method of using can include a housing supporting a barrel and a needle hub, the barrel being rotatably received within the housing, a needle extending distally from the needle hub and including a sharp distal tip, a safety shield being disposed over the needle, the method comprising: with the safety needle assembly in a first configuration in which the sharp distal tip of the needle is exposed from a distal end of the safety shield and the safety shield engages the barrel to prevent translation of the safety shield distally along the needle, translating the safety shield proximally along the needle; rotating the barrel with respect to the safety shield as the safety shield translates proximally along the needle, thereby disengaging the safety shield from the barrel to permit translation of the safety shield distally along the needle; and translating the safety shield distally along the needle until the safety shield covers the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- The method of using wherein translating the safety shield distally along the needle can comprise a biasing member applying a distally directed force to the safety shield.
- The method of using wherein the biasing member can be received within the barrel and extends between the needle hub and the safety shield.
- The method of using wherein the biasing member can be a spring.
- The method of using wherein the safety shield can include a detent that engages a catch on the barrel when the safety needle assembly occupies the first configuration.
- The method of using wherein the catch can include a sloped surface proximal of the detent.
- The method of using wherein the detent can bear against the sloped surface when the safety shield translates proximally along the needle, causing the barrel to rotate with respect to the safety shield.
- The method of using wherein when the safety shield covers the sharp distal tip of the needle, the housing can prevent the safety shield from moving proximally with respect to the needle by a distance sufficient to expose the sharp distal tip of the needle.
- The method of using wherein the housing can include a catch configured to deflect to allow the safety shield to pass when the safety shield moves in the proximal-to-distal direction relative to the housing and configured to block movement of the safety shield in the distal-to-proximal direction relative to the housing.
- The method wherein the catch can comprise a leaf spring.
- The various embodiments of the present safety needle assembly and methods now will be discussed in detail with an emphasis on highlighting the advantageous features. These embodiments depict the novel and non-obvious safety needle assembly and methods shown in the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only. These drawings include the following figures, in which like numerals indicate like parts:
-
FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the present safety needle assembly, illustrating the assembly in a pre-activation configuration; -
FIG. 1A is a detail view of the portion ofFIG. 1 indicated by the box labeled 1A-1A; -
FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 , illustrating the assembly in a post-activation configuration; -
FIG. 3 is an exploded side perspective view of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 taken through the cut line labeled 4-4 inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of the barrel of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of the safety shield of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of various components of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 taken through the cut line labeled 4-4 inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of various components of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of various components of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 taken through the cut line labeled 4-4 inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of various components of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 1 taken through the cut line labeled 4-4 inFIG. 1 ; and -
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of the safety needle assembly ofFIG. 2 taken through the cut line labeled 12-12 inFIG. 2 . - The following detailed description describes the present embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, reference numbers label elements of the present embodiments. These reference numbers are reproduced below in connection with the discussion of the corresponding drawing features.
- The embodiments of the present safety needle assemblies and related methods are described below with reference to the figures. These figures, and their written descriptions, indicate that certain components of the apparatus are formed integrally, and certain other components are formed as separate pieces. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that components shown and described herein as being formed integrally may in alternative embodiments be formed as separate pieces. Those of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that components shown and described herein as being formed as separate pieces may in alternative embodiments be formed integrally. Further, as used herein the term integral describes a single unitary piece.
- The present embodiments include methods of using a safety needle assembly and method of manufacturing or making the safety needle assembly. Some of these embodiments may be performed in connection with treating a human and/or animal body. Others of these embodiments may be performed independently of a human and/or animal body, such as for purposes of testing or demonstration. Accordingly, the present embodiments pertaining to methods of using a safety needle assembly should not be construed as limited to methods of treating a human and/or animal body.
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FIGS. 1-12 illustrate one embodiment of the presentsafety needle assembly 20. Theassembly 20 is configured for use in drawing blood and/or infusing blood or other liquids. With reference toFIGS. 1, 2, and 3 , in some embodiments theassembly 20 includes ahousing 22, a barrel 24 (FIG. 3 ), aneedle hub 26, aneedle 28, asafety shield 30, and a biasing member 32 (FIG. 3 ). With reference toFIG. 1 , theneedle 28 includes a sharpdistal tip 34. In the pre-activation or ready to use configuration ofFIG. 1 , the sharpdistal tip 34 is exposed from adistal end 36 of thesafety shield 30. Theassembly 20 may optionally include a removable cap (not shown) that extends over theneedle 28 and thesafety shield 30 in the pre-activation configuration to cover the sharpdistal tip 34 and thereby reduce the likelihood of needlestick and/or for packaging. In the post-activation configuration ofFIG. 2 , also referred to as the protective or protected position, thesafety shield 30 extends distally beyond the sharpdistal tip 34 to protectively cover thesharp tip 34 and reduce the likelihood of unintended needlestick. - With reference to
FIG. 4 , thehousing 22 includes aproximal end 38 and adistal end 40, and defines aninterior space 42. In the illustrated embodiment, thehousing 22 is generally cylindrical. However, the illustrated configuration is just one example and is not limiting. Thehousing 22 includes aproximal opening 44 at theproximal end 38 and adistal opening 46 at thedistal end 40. A wall thickness of thehousing 22 is substantially uniform, except at thedistal end 40, where the housing wall is thicker, creating a proximally facing internalannular shoulder 48 at the point where the wall thickness increases. In alternative embodiments, the wall thickness of thehousing 22 need not be thicker at thedistal end 40. For example, ribs (not shown) or other structure could be provided at or near thedistal end 40 to serve the same, or a similar, function as theshoulder 48. Thedistal opening 46, which extends through the region of increased wall thickness, thus has a smaller diameter than theproximal opening 44. In other examples, the housing has a uniform thickness and the shoulder is formed from a separately inserted or co-molded component. - With reference to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , thehousing 22 includes acatch 50 near thedistal end 40. With particular reference toFIG. 3 , thecatch 50 comprises a portion of the wall surface of thehousing 22 defined by aU-shaped cutout 52 through the sidewall. With particular reference toFIG. 4 , thecatch 50 is a cantilevered leaf spring that extends distally from itsjunction 54 with the sidewall. Thejunction 54 can be proximally located as shown or distally located. Near itsdistal end 56, a thickness of thecatch 50 increases, creating a rampedsurface 58. As described below, the rampedsurface 58 bears against thesafety shield 30 as thesafety shield 30 slides distally along theneedle 28, causing thecatch 50 to deflect radially outward until thesafety shield 30 passes thecatch 50. After thesafety shield 30 passes thecatch 50, a spring return force in the deflectedcatch 50 causes thecatch 50 to return to its at rest position in which it blocks thesafety shield 30 from returning proximally along theneedle 28. The process by which thesafety shield 30 deflects thecatch 50 and the catch subsequently blocks the safety shield's return is described in detail below. - With further reference to
FIG. 4 , thebarrel 24 is rotatably received within theinterior space 42 of thehousing 22. Relative dimensions of thebarrel 24 and thehousing 22 are preferably such that thebarrel 24 is freely rotatable within theinterior space 42 of thehousing 22 without substantial friction between thebarrel 24 and thehousing 22.FIG. 5 illustrates thebarrel 24 in greater detail. In the illustrated embodiment, thebarrel 24 is generally cylindrical and includes a substantially uniform wall thickness. However, the illustrated configuration is just one example and is not limiting. Achannel 60 extends through the sidewall of thebarrel 24 from itsproximal end 62 to itsdistal end 64. An edge of thechannel 60 includes anotch 66 adjacent thedistal end 64. Thenotch 66 engages thesafety shield 30, as described in detail below. Distal of thenotch 66, the edge of thechannel 60 further includes acutout 68 at thedistal end 64. Thecutout 68 provides a clearance so that thebarrel 24 does not interfere with thecatch 50 on thehousing 22. Thenotch 66 and thecutout 68 are not limited to their respective shapes as illustrated. In alternative embodiments either or both of thenotch 66 and thecutout 68 may have different shapes. - With reference to
FIG. 4 , theneedle hub 26 is received within theproximal opening 44 of thehousing 22. In the illustrated embodiment, theneedle hub 26 is shaped as a stepped cylinder. However, the illustrated configuration is just one example and is not limiting. Acentral portion 70 of theneedle hub 26 includes an outer diameter that is slightly smaller than an inner diameter of theproximal opening 44 of thehousing 22 such that thecentral portion 70 is snugly received and held within theproximal opening 44. Theneedle hub 26 may be held within theproximal opening 44 by any suitable means, such as a friction fit, adhesive, welding, etc. Aproximal flange 72 extends radially outward of thecentral portion 70 at the proximal end of theneedle hub 26 and abuts an annular proximal face 74 of thehousing 22. A distal portion 76 of theneedle hub 26 includes a lesser outer diameter than thecentral portion 70, creating a distally facing internalannular shoulder 78 at the junction of the distal portion 76 and thecentral portion 70. - With further reference to
FIG. 4 , theneedle hub 26 further includes a firstinner diameter 80 in the region of thecentral portion 70 that steps down to a second, lesser,inner diameter 82 near the junction of thecentral portion 70 and the distal portion 76, creating a proximally facing internalannular shoulder 84 at the location of the step. Atube 86 is received within the firstinner diameter region 80 of theneedle hub 26 and extends proximally out of theneedle hub 26. Theneedle 28 is received within the lesserinner diameter 82 of the distal portion 76 of theneedle hub 26 and extends distally from theneedle hub 26, through thebarrel 24, and through thedistal opening 46 of thehousing 22. Theneedle 28 may be held within theneedle hub 26 by any suitable means, such as a friction fit, adhesive, welding, etc. As described above, theneedle 28 includes a sharpdistal tip 34. Theneedle 28, which may also be referred to as a cannula, further defines alumen 88 that extends entirely through theneedle 28. Thelumen 88 of theneedle 28 is in fluid communication with thetube 86 that extends proximally out of theneedle hub 26. Thetube 86 and theneedle 28 thus create a fluid path between a fluid source connected to thetube 86 and a vessel of a patient in which the sharpdistal tip 34 of theneedle 28 is inserted. - With further reference to
FIG. 4 , thesafety shield 30 is received within theinterior space 42 of thehousing 22 and extends distally from thehousing 22 through thedistal opening 46. With reference toFIG. 6 , which shows thesafety shield 30 in detail, thesafety shield 30 is shaped substantially as a cylinder having a uniform outer diameter, except for a tapered nose portion at thedistal end 36 and aflange 90 that extends radially outward at theproximal end 92. With reference toFIG. 4 , relative dimensions of thesafety shield 30 and thedistal opening 46 of thehousing 22 are preferably such that the uniform outer diameter portion of thesafety shield 30 is freely slidable within thedistal opening 46 without substantial friction between thesafety shield 30 and thedistal opening 46. Theproximal flange 90, however, has a greater diameter than thedistal opening 46 such that thesafety shield 30 cannot be expelled from thehousing 22 through thedistal opening 46. Thesafety shield 30 defines alumen 94 that slidably receives theneedle 28. Relative dimensions of thesafety shield lumen 94 and theneedle 28 are preferably such that theneedle 28 is freely slidable within thesafety shield lumen 94 without substantial friction between theneedle 28 and thelumen 94. - With reference to
FIG. 1A , which illustrates a detail view of thedistal end 40 of thehousing 22 where thesafety shield 30 emerges through thedistal opening 46, thesafety shield 30 includes at least onerail 96 that extends longitudinally along the outer surface of thesafety shield 30. More than onerail 96 may be provided, such as asecond rail 96 disposed diametrically opposite therail 96 that is visible inFIG. 1A . Thedistal opening 46 in thehousing 22 includes a keyway orslot 98 that receives therail 96. Thekeyway 98 is preferably of substantially the same shape as therail 96, and of slightly greater dimension, such that thekeyway 98 and therail 96 do not interfere with the translatory motion of thesafety shield 30 through thedistal opening 46, but engagement of therail 96 in thekeyway 98 prevents relative rotation of thesafety shield 30 and thehousing 22. - With reference to
FIG. 6 , thesafety shield 30 further includes adetent 100 that extends radially outward from theproximal flange 90. In the illustrated embodiment, thedetent 100 is circular in cross-section. However, the illustrated configuration is just one example and is not limiting. With reference toFIG. 7 , which illustrates thesafety shield 30 and thebarrel 24 without thehousing 22 for clarity, thedetent 100 engages thenotch 66 on thebarrel 24 when thesafety needle assembly 20 occupies the pre-activation configuration ofFIG. 1 . With reference toFIG. 5 , adistal face 102 of thenotch 66 provides a bearing surface for thedetent 100 that resists distal movement of thesafety shield 30 along theneedle 28, thus keeping the sharp distal tip 34 (FIG. 7 ) of theneedle 28 exposed for use. A proximal face 104 (FIG. 5 ) of thenotch 66 includes a sloped surface that thedetent 100 bears against to cause relative rotation of thebarrel 24 and thesafety shield 30 when thesafety shield 30 moves proximally along theneedle 28, as described further below. - With reference to
FIG. 4 , the biasingmember 32 is received within thebarrel 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasingmember 32 comprises a spring, more specifically a coil spring. However, the illustrated embodiment is just one example and is not limiting. In the pre-activation configuration ofFIGS. 1 and 4 , the biasingmember 32 is compressed with aproximal end 106 of the biasingmember 32 bearing against the distally facingannular shoulder 78 of theneedle hub 26 and adistal end 108 of the biasingmember 32 bearing against aproximal face 110 of thesafety shield 30. When thesafety shield 30 translates proximally along theneedle 28, as described below, the biasingmember 32 compresses further, increasing the magnitude of a spring return force bearing against thesafety shield 30, and biasing thesafety shield 30 toward the post-activation configuration ofFIG. 2 , as further described below. - With reference to
FIG. 1 , thesafety needle assembly 20 further includes awing assembly 112. Thewing assembly 112 includes a generallycylindrical body 114 defining aninterior passage 116 through which thehousing 22 extends, such that thewing assembly 112 is located near thedistal end 40 of thehousing 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the body is generally cylindrical. However, the illustrated configuration is just one example and is not limiting. For example, the housing can be angular, oblong, oval, or a hollow polyhedron for receiving the housing. Relative dimensions of the body'sinterior passage 116 and thehousing 22 are preferably such that thebody 114 is snugly received about thehousing 22 so as to restrict relative movement of thewing assembly 112 and thehousing 22. Thewing assembly 112 may be secured to thehousing 22 by any suitable means, such as a friction fit, adhesive, welding, etc. - With further reference to
FIG. 1 , thewing assembly 112 includes first andsecond wings 118 that extend laterally in opposite directions from thebody 114. Thewings 118 are substantially planar and are constructed of a flexible material so that they can conform to contoured surfaces of a patient's body in the area of a blood draw or infusion. Tape (not shown) placed over thewings 118 secures thesafety needle assembly 20 to the patient's body. An underside of eachwing 118 may include texturing (not shown) to increase the ability of thewings 118 to grip the skin. Anoptional opening 120 on eachwing 118 may be included to facilitate securing thewings 118 to one another. - With reference to
FIG. 1A , thewing assembly body 114 includes achannel 122 along its inner surface. Thechannel 122 overlies thecatch 50 on thehousing 22 and creates a space into which thecatch 50 may deflect when thesafety shield 30 moves distally along theneedle 28 past thecatch 50, as described above. - As described above, embodiments of the present
safety needle assembly 20 are configured for use in drawing blood and/or infusing blood or other liquids. The process of inserting theneedle 28 into the patient's vasculature is commonly referred to as cannulation. During cannulation, an operator begins with thesafety needle assembly 20 in the pre-activation configuration ofFIG. 1 . The pre-activation configuration is also illustrated inFIG. 8 . With reference toFIG. 8 , the operator positions theassembly 20 such that the sharpdistal tip 34 of theneedle 28 is near the patient'sskin 124. In the pre-activation configuration as shown, a desired length of theneedle 28 adjacent thetip 34 is exposed. In various embodiments, the exposed length L may be any length, such as between about 1 mm and about 10 mm. In one example, the exposed length L may be about 4 mm. The operator positions theassembly 20 such that it forms a desired angle Θ with respect to the patient'sskin 124. Θ may be any value, such as between about 5° and about 30°. In one example, Θ may be about 18°. - With the
assembly 20 positioned as inFIG. 8 , the sharpdistal tip 34 of theneedle 28 is closely adjacent to, or abutting, the patient'sskin 124, and thedistal end 36 of thesafety shield 30 is similarly closely adjacent to, or abutting, the patient'sskin 124. In this configuration, thesafety shield 30 and thebarrel 24 define a first relative rotational orientation, which is described above and illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 7 . In this first relative rotational orientation, thedetent 100 on thesafety shield 30 is seated within thenotch 66 on thebarrel 24, as shown inFIG. 9 . - The operator applies a distally directed force to the
assembly 20, such as to thehousing 22 and/or thewing assembly 112, to pierce the patient'sskin 124 with theneedle 28. During this step, the operator preferably does not touch thesafety shield 30 so as not to restrict its ability to translate along theneedle 28. The motion of theassembly 20 toward the patient'sskin 124 forces thedistal end 36 of thesafety shield 30 against the patient'sskin 124, which applies a steadily increasing, proximally directed force F (FIG. 9 ) on thesafety shield 30, forcing thesafety shield 30 to translate proximally along theneedle 28. The translatory motion of thesafety shield 30 along theneedle 28 generates rotational motion of thebarrel 24 as thedetent 100 on thesafety shield 30 bears against the slopedproximal surface 104 of thenotch 66 on thebarrel 24, as described above with reference toFIG. 7 , and as shown inFIG. 9 . Thus, thesafety needle assembly 20 moves toward a second configuration in which thesafety shield 30 and thebarrel 24 define a second relative rotational orientation. In this second relative rotational orientation, which is illustrated inFIGS. 10 and 11 , thedetent 100 on thesafety shield 30 is positioned within thechannel 60 on thebarrel 24. Thesafety shield 30 is thus free to translate along theneedle 28, with thedetent 100 sliding along thechannel 60, until thesafety shield 30 reaches a proximal limit. The proximal limit may be defined as a configuration in which the biasingmember 32 is compressed as far as possible. In this configuration, again illustrated inFIGS. 10 and 11 , the biasingmember 32 stores a distally directed spring return force that bears against theproximal face 110 of thesafety shield 30. In alternative embodiments, the proximal limit of thesafety shield 30 may be defined as a configuration in which thesafety shield 30 encounters a barrier, such as thedistal face 126 of theneedle hub 26, or another barrier (not shown). -
FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate thesafety shield 30 at its proximal limit. At this position, a desired length of theneedle 28 is exposed. In various embodiments, and with reference toFIG. 10 , the exposed length L′ may be any length, such as between about 10 mm and about 30 mm. In one example, the exposed length L′ may be about 19.5 mm. - When the infusion or blood draw procedure is complete, the operator withdraws the
needle 28 from the patient's vasculature. As theneedle 28 withdraws, thesafety shield 30 moves distally along theneedle 28 under the influence of the biasingmember 32, which releases the spring return force stored therein as thesafety shield 30 moves distally along theneedle 28. Because thesafety shield 30 and thebarrel 24 occupy the second relative rotational orientation during this phase of the process, thedetent 100 on thesafety shield 30 does not contact thenotch 66 on thebarrel 24 when thedetent 100 reaches the location of thenotch 66. Instead, thedetent 100, which is positioned in thebarrel channel 60, bypasses thenotch 66 as thesafety shield 30 continues farther distally along theneedle 28 toward the post-activation configuration ofFIGS. 2 and 12 in which the sharpdistal tip 34 of theneedle 28 is covered to reduce the likelihood of needlestick. - With reference to
FIG. 12 , as thesafety shield 30 continues moving distally along theneedle 28 toward the post-activation configuration, thedetent 100 eventually reaches thecatch 50 on thehousing 22. As thedetent 100 passes beneath thecatch 50, thedetent 100 contacts the rampedinner surface 58 at thedistal end 56 of thecatch 50, causing thecatch 50 to deflect radially outward. As described above, the channel 122 (FIG. 1A ) in the inner surface of thewing assembly body 114 provides space into which thecatch 50 deflects. When thedetent 100 passes distally of thecatch 50, the spring return force stored in the catch 50 (which is a leaf spring) moves thecatch 50 back to its at rest position, as shown inFIG. 12 . Because thecatch 50 protrudes into the return path of thedetent 100, thecatch 50 provides a barrier that prevents thesafety shield 30 from moving proximally along theneedle 28 by a distance that would be sufficient to re-expose thesharp tip 34 of theneedle 28. The sharpdistal tip 34 of theneedle 28 is thus safely covered by thesafety shield 30, thereby reducing the likelihood of needlestick. - As discussed above, some of the present methods may be performed independently of a human and/or animal body, such as for purposes of testing or demonstration. In such embodiments, an operator begins with the
safety needle assembly 20 in the pre-activation configuration ofFIG. 1 . The operator then may translate thesafety shield 30 proximally along theneedle 28 by grasping thehousing 22 with the fingers on one hand, grasping thesafety shield 30 with the fingers on the opposite hand, and pushing thesafety shield 30 proximally with respect to theneedle 28 and thehousing 22. The proximal translation of thesafety shield 30 along theneedle 28 rotates thebarrel 24 and disengages thedetent 100 on thesafety shield 30 from thenotch 66 on thebarrel 24. When the operator releases thesafety shield 30, the spring return force in the biasingmember 32 translates thesafety shield 30 distally along theneedle 28 until thesafety shield 30 reaches the post-activation configuration ofFIG. 2 . - The various component parts of the present
safety needle assembly 20 may be constructed of suitable medical grade materials having material properties that provide each component with desired characteristics, which characteristics may vary from one component to another. For example, certain components such as thehousing 22, thebarrel 24, theneedle hub 26, thesafety shield 30 and/or thewing assembly 112 may be constructed of medical grade plastic materials, including, without limitation, nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polyether block amide (PEBAX), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), thermoplastic polyetherimide (ULTEM), etc. Certain other components, such as theneedle 28 and/or the biasingmember 32, may be constructed of medical grade metal materials, including, without limitation, stainless steel, titanium, cobalt-chromium, etc. The foregoing examples should not be construed as limiting. For example, components indicated as being plastic may in some cases be constructed of other materials, such as metals, and components indicated as being metal may in some cases be constructed of other materials, such as plastics. - Method of manufacturing or making and method of using the safety needle assemblies and their components are within the scope of the present disclosure.
- The above description presents various embodiments of the present invention, and the manner and process of making and using them, in such full, clear, concise, and exact terms as to enable any person skilled in the art to which it pertains to make and use this invention. This invention is, however, susceptible to modifications and alternate constructions from that discussed above that are fully equivalent. Consequently, this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. On the contrary, this invention covers all modifications and alternate constructions coming within the spirit and scope of the invention as generally expressed by the following claims, which particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter of the invention.
Claims (24)
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US15/115,884 US10279108B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2015-02-06 | Safety needle assemblies and related methods |
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US15/115,884 US10279108B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2015-02-06 | Safety needle assemblies and related methods |
PCT/EP2015/052521 WO2015118109A1 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2015-02-06 | Safety needle assemblies and related methods |
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US10279108B2 US10279108B2 (en) | 2019-05-07 |
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EP (1) | EP3102265B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN106470721A (en) |
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ES (1) | ES2714561T3 (en) |
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US10639454B2 (en) * | 2016-03-28 | 2020-05-05 | Becton, Dickinson And Company | Ergonomic IV systems and methods |
WO2019023367A1 (en) * | 2017-07-25 | 2019-01-31 | Kurin, Inc. | Needle assembly with needle safety shield |
Citations (1)
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US20090259196A1 (en) * | 2006-09-06 | 2009-10-15 | Christian Gratwohl | Needle protection device with a blocked protection position |
Family Cites Families (7)
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US5049136A (en) * | 1990-01-10 | 1991-09-17 | Johnson Gerald W | Hypodermic needle with protective sheath |
AU2196292A (en) * | 1991-07-18 | 1993-02-23 | Sterimatic Holdings Limited | Skin puncturing instruments, especially clinical needles |
US6648858B2 (en) * | 2001-12-21 | 2003-11-18 | Visual Connections, Inc. | Safety device for a sheathed, prefilled injection syringe |
EP1350536A1 (en) * | 2002-03-07 | 2003-10-08 | Sergio Restelli | Safety butterfly needle for venipuncture with needle cover device |
JP3928025B2 (en) * | 2005-05-25 | 2007-06-13 | 株式会社共伸 | Medical needle |
RU2438721C2 (en) * | 2006-06-30 | 2012-01-10 | Эбботт Байотекнолоджи Лтд. | Automatic injection device |
EP1985324A1 (en) * | 2007-04-24 | 2008-10-29 | Nipro Corporation | Indwelling needle with protective sleeve |
-
2015
- 2015-02-06 BR BR112016018189-1A patent/BR112016018189A2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2015-02-06 RU RU2016135932A patent/RU2672689C2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
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- 2015-02-06 EP EP15702807.7A patent/EP3102265B1/en not_active Not-in-force
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- 2015-02-06 CN CN201580017760.6A patent/CN106470721A/en active Pending
- 2015-02-06 ES ES15702807T patent/ES2714561T3/en active Active
Patent Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20090259196A1 (en) * | 2006-09-06 | 2009-10-15 | Christian Gratwohl | Needle protection device with a blocked protection position |
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ES2714561T3 (en) | 2019-05-29 |
WO2015118109A1 (en) | 2015-08-13 |
US10279108B2 (en) | 2019-05-07 |
BR112016018189A2 (en) | 2020-10-27 |
EP3102265A1 (en) | 2016-12-14 |
CN106470721A (en) | 2017-03-01 |
RU2672689C2 (en) | 2018-11-19 |
EP3102265B1 (en) | 2018-12-26 |
RU2016135932A (en) | 2018-03-15 |
RU2016135932A3 (en) | 2018-03-30 |
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